St. Nimatullah

Youssef Kassab Al_Hardini, who would take the name Nimatullah in religion, was born in 1808 in Hardin, Lebanon. In 1828, Youssef entered the Lebanese Maronite Order. Four of his brothers also became priests or monks. After studying at the monastery of St. Anthony for two years, Youssef began his novitiate and was named Nimatullah. Here he distinguished himself by his deep love for the Blessed Sacrament; he was also very devoted to Mary, always honoring her Immaculate Conception. He was sent to study theology and philosophy in Kfifan and was ordained in 1833. After his ordination he became a professor and leader of the scholasticate. Civil war struck Lebanon in 1840 and 1845 and Father Nimatullah suffered with his people, refusing to leave them, although he could have had a safer life as a hermit. He offered his life to God for his order and for his country. Father Nimatullah was hard on himself, but understanding and merciful to his brothers. He said “A monk’s first concern, night and day, should be not to hurt or trouble his brother monks.” He was appointed Assistant General of his order in 1845 and he served in this position for three terms, but in humility he refused to serve as Superior General. As Assistant General he influenced the Superior General to send the young monks to Ghazir for further studies at the new college opened by the Jesuits. Because of the severe cold weather, Father Nimatullah became seriously ill while teaching in the monastery of Kfifan in December 1858. He died on December 14 as he prayed "O Mary, to you I entrust my soul." His fellow monks and the people he served were already referring Father Nimatullah as the "Saint of Kfifan" while he was alive. He was beatified in May 1998.